you know, after listening to the latest Rilo Kiley album Under the Blacklight for the last few weeks, i can safely say that the album will most likely wind up on my best-of 2007 list. it’s such an enjoyable album to listen to. if this project was the group’s last attempt at emerging under the shadow of Jenny Lewis‘ solo career, i would have to say that they succeeded. there’s a fine line between producing well crafted pop and completely selling out to the corporate big-wigs and Rilo Kiley did a commendable job in balancing the two. the songs are undeniably catchy and well produced with ear-worm hooks galore. unfortunately, the material winds up a little on the short side (37 minutes) but they sure did make every minute count. highlights include: Breakin’ Up, Silver Lining, Under the Blacklight and Dreamworld. if i had to nit-pick, producer Mike Elizondo sorta overdoes it a bit on the TR-808 kick drum samples at certain points especially on the last track, Give a Little Love. the low kick drum tones end up being a bit monotonous and annoying after repeated listens. the song really didn’t need that type of bass drum sound in my humble opinion. but it’s just a small issue on an otherwise spectacular CD.
Track list: 1. Silver Lining
2. Close Call
3. The Moneymaker
4. Breakin’ Up
5. Under the Blacklight
6. Dreamworld
7. Dejalo
8. 15
9. Smoke Detector
10. The Angels Hung Around
11. Give a Little Love
[...] this is a surprise. at least to me… Rilo Kiley just announced 2008 tour dates which will start in April! I was so sure their recent fall tour was [...]
[...] this is a surprise. at least to me… Rilo Kiley just announced 2008 tour dates which will start in April! I was so sure their recent fall tour was [...]